When Is the Best Time to Have Maternity Photos? | Sunshine Coast Maternity Photographer

One of the most common questions I’m asked as a maternity and newborn photographer is: “When should I schedule my maternity photos?”

The sweet spot for maternity photography is usually between 30 and 33 weeks of pregnancy. During this time, your beautiful bump is perfectly round and visible, while you’re still likely to feel comfortable enough to enjoy the session.

Why 30–33 Weeks Is Ideal

Your bump is beautifully defined

By the early third trimester, your bump has usually “popped,” creating that gorgeous round shape that photographs so beautifully.

You’re often still feeling comfortable

Every pregnancy is different, but many mums find that the weeks before 34 are when they still have a good amount of energy. Later in pregnancy, swelling, fatigue, and discomfort can make sessions more challenging.

Less risk of baby arriving early

While it’s rare, babies can sometimes make their appearance earlier than expected. Scheduling your maternity photos between 30–33 weeks helps ensure we capture your bump before your little one decides it’s time to arrive.

What If You’re Expecting Twins?

If you’re expecting twins or multiples, it’s usually best to schedule your maternity session a little earlier — typically around 28–30 weeks — as bumps tend to grow faster and babies often arrive earlier.

Booking Your Maternity Session

Because maternity sessions are best captured during a specific window, I recommend booking your session early in your pregnancy to secure a date in that 30–33 week timeframe.

On the Sunshine Coast, many of my maternity sessions take place during golden hour at one of our beautiful local beaches or bush locations at either sunrise or sunset. Once we have booked in a date, I will send you a location guide so you can choose the right location and time of day for you.

Many families also book their newborn photography session at the same time so their baby’s first moments are beautifully documented. I have a bump to baby package which is designed to incorporate both your maternity and newborn sessions and will save you money by booking both together. Take a peek here at my packages.

A Beautiful Chapter Worth Remembering

Pregnancy is such a fleeting time. While it can sometimes feel long in the moment, it passes incredibly quickly. Maternity photos are a way to pause and honour the journey your body is on as you prepare to meet your baby.

Whether it’s your first baby or your fourth, these images become a meaningful part of your family’s story — something you’ll look back on for years to come.

If you’re currently expecting and thinking about maternity photos on the Sunshine Coast, the best time to book is during your second trimester so we can reserve your session for that perfect 30–33 week window.

If you’re expecting a little one and thinking about maternity photos on the Sunshine Coast, I’d love to help you capture this special chapter. Get in touch here to book your session.

Serving Families Across the Sunshine Coast

Based in Bli Bli, providing maternity, newborn and family photography for families across Maroochydore, Buderim, Noosa, Caloundra, and surrounding areas. I can’t wait to capture these precious moments for you.